Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Through Ivy Global's programs, students have improved an average of 200 points on their SAT scores. Generally, we expect our students to improve anywhere between 100 – 400 points. We use real SAT/ACT practice tests to measure our students so that results are not artificially inflated and reflect real improvement.

Class sizes are typically 5-10 students. For larger classes, in addition to our primary instructor, we provide additional support with another instructor to ensure the student-teacher ratio is never greater than 10:1. Please follow this link for a current list of SAT classes.

Ivy Global differentiates itself from other companies in that our instructors have scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT/ACT. Additionally, we only select teachers with strong academic backgrounds or credentials from top universities. Ivy Global is committed to offering a uniquely-tailored program. Our small class sizes allow instructors to teach the classes to meet each student’s unique needs.

We hand-pick instructors who combine high academic achievement with a passion for teaching. Our instructors are graduates of top US colleges and experts in writing and teaching standardized tests. Meet some of our SAT/ACT instructors here.

Normally, if a student misses a class, we can provide the homework and materials for the missed class. We also offer the option to schedule a 2 hour private tutoring session at a 30% discount off the regular rate to cover the class material. If you are expecting to miss more than one class, please call us to discuss options.

The amount of homework assigned varies for each course, but in all cases there is significant flexibility. The instructor will always assign a “bare minimum” amount of homework with additional work optional. If a student is unable to complete the “bare minimum” work before class, the instructor will work with the student to devise a catch-up schedule. We understand the hectic nature of student life, and our instructors and courses reflect that understanding.

There are several factors that distinguish Ivy Global from other test prep agencies:

Teacher quality: Our instructors are knowledgeable, experienced, and committed to helping students maximize their test scores.

Individualized approach: Our small classes are customized according to the needs of every student. At too many prep agencies, instructors rely on scripted material. Our instructors engage directly with students, answering questions and responding to concerns as they arise. Our prep programs offer flexible homework assignments to suit students with varying schedules.

Close teacher-student rapport: Because our student-teacher ratio is capped at 10:1, our instructors gain a deep understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, and personality of each student. This understanding allows the instructor to shape the class according to the needs of students.

Selective prep material: The prep books and practice tests employed in our classes are chosen after a rigorous evaluative process. Unlike many other test prep agencies, which utilize material from only one source, we use the best materials from a variety of the most effective sources.

Real practice tests: Many other test prep agencies administer unrealistic practice tests that have not been written or approved by the actual test-makers. Our courses rely on real practice tests from the test-makers themselves.

Our team of curriculum designers collaborated with Ivy Global’s most experienced instructors to develop a flexible, yet rigorous curriculum for our SAT/ACT classes. We use the most effective strategies, tips, methods, and materials on the market to ensure that every student taking the class knows how to tackle the SAT/ACT.

Both our SAT classes and private SAT/ACT tutoring services offer thorough preparation in terms of the strategy and substance of the SAT/ACT. The private tutoring option is best suited for those who work best in a one-on-one context. These students might include those with special learning needs or those who want to focus on only one of the three sections of the SAT. The class option is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a group setting. Teamwork, friendly competition, and laughter are important aspects of our classes.

No. We offer tutoring per session in addition to the complete tutoring package. We recommend tutoring per session for those students who are unsure about how many sessions they need and also want to just try out tutoring to see if it might be effective for them.

We try to accommodate the student's request but the match depends heavily on the student's and the tutor's schedule. Nevertheless, we can assure you that our tutors are experienced, have exceptional academic credentials and a deep commitment to seeing their students succeed.

At Ivy Global, we offer four types of classes: the five-week and three-week summer courses, the one-week crash course, and the eight-week course.

Extended Intensive Course(100 hours) - This five-week course offers the most intensive, thorough coverage of both substantive and strategic preparation for the SAT. Students take five full practice exams, and go through all materials in the Ivy Global New SAT Guide, all exams in the College Board Guide, as well as additional Ivy Global practice tests.

Intensive Course(60 hours) - This popular course offers intensive, detailed test preparation, with ample time for students to practice writing in true test conditions. Both the content and strategies of the SAT/ACT are covered in depth. Students take four full practice exams during the three-week course. Daily homework assignments are given, with options provided to busier students

Regular Course(32 hours) - This course covers the same material as the Crash Course, with more practice time built into the classes. Given that this course often runs during the school year, homework assignments are flexible, with a minimum core amount of homework and optional additional homework assigned. Students take a mini-diagnostic SAT at the beginning of the course and finish with a full test on the last day

Crash Course(20 hours) - The crash course offers a condensed introduction to the most successful SAT/ACT strategies. Also included is a review of the substantive material tested on the SAT/ACT. Students take a one full practice test during the weeklong course.

Yes. Experiencing the test under accurate test conditions is an integral element of test preparation. In each of our classes, students take practice exams and also work on a substantial number of practice sections in true test conditions. Our longer courses (60 hours) offer more practice exams.

A typical class consists of a combination of lecture-based explanation, individual practice sections, and collaborative discussion. Our small classes make it possible for teachers to respond directly to student concerns about particular questions or concepts. Our instructors maintain a relaxed atmosphere. A typical class ends with our famous vocabulary game, fueled by friendly competition and laughter!

It is certainly vital for students to review course material after the course has ended until the date of the test. However, in general we recommend that students take the course early in their test prep schedule, to allow for maximum time to practice strategies and test-taking techniques. Students may find that they can continue to improve upon their weaknesses by reviewing, drilling, and writing additional practice tests while utilizing the strategies they’ve learned in our prep courses.

All of our SAT/ACT prep classes strive to respond to the particular needs of our students. The instructors are trained to maximize class time according to the individual student's strengths and weaknesses.

For students who feel comfortable with most of the sections of the SAT (Reading, Writing and Language, Math, and the optional essay), one-on-one SAT tutoring may be the optimal choice.